Best Honolulu & Oahu Beaches: Waikiki, North Shore - 2

Surfing Beaches

There are surf spots all around the island for every type of surfer. If you’re not sure where to go, ask at a surf shop or chat up a local before you head out to ride the waves. Note: As mentioned below, North Shore surf is quite dangerous during winter, so it’s advised to stay out of the water unless you’re a professional.

For the Pros

On the North Shore, professional surf competitions are held at beaches such as Waimea Bay, Banzai Pipeline (Ehukai Beach) and Sunset Beach every winter when the surf can get more than 20 feet high. When the surf is this big, it’s better to watch the action from the shore, unless you’re a pro. It’s a spectacular show—even for non-surfers.

For Beginners

For newbies, Waikiki is the easiest place to surf. You can rent boards and take lessons from the “beach boys” on the beach. Or, sign up with a local surf school for more personal instruction. Girls Who Surf is staffed by women surf instructors—all lifeguard- , CPR- and first-aid certified. The Basic Surf Lesson for non-residents costs $90 per person for two hours (tel. 808-772-4583).

Hawaiian Fire Surf School is a group of Honolulu City firemen (yes, firemen!), who give surf lessons on a secluded beach outside of Waikiki. Two-hour premium lessons start at $99 per person. 3318 Campbell Ave. Tel. 888-955-7873. www.hawaiianfire.com

 

• A boy takes a surf lesson at Waikiki Beach.

Courtesy of the OVB

Body Surfers and Boogie Boarders

For body surfing and boogie boarding, head to Sandy Beach, east of Waikiki off of Kalaniana’ole Highway. Be warned though—the waves here are for experts. Intermediate wave riders might try Makapu’u, farther east on the highway from Sandy’s. If you’re a novice, stick to mellow beaches until you’re ready to tackle more powerful waves.

Windsurfers

Wind-powered surfing can be found at Kailua Beach Park, on the windward (east) side of Oahu, a world-class spot for both kiteboarding and windsurfing. To get to Kailua Beach Park, take the Kalaniana’ole Highway north to Kailua Road. Stay on Kailua Road and cross Kawailo Road into the park.

Next: Family and Scenic Beaches